Nia DaCosta’s ‘Hedda’ Explores Power and Freedom in Bold Adaptation

Nia DaCosta’s new film, ‘Hedda’, now streaming on Prime Video, offers a striking reimagining of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play from 1891. Set against the backdrop of post-World War II England, this modern adaptation tells the story of Hedda Tesman, portrayed by Tessa Thompson, as she navigates the oppressive confines of marriage and society in her pursuit of power and freedom.

The film opens with a gripping scene in which Hedda sits before a large Cubist portrait of herself, only identifying herself by her first name. Two investigators question her about a shooting that occurred the previous night, leading to a flashback that reveals her scheming intentions. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that Hedda is willing to employ dubious tactics to secure her future amidst her husband George Tesman’s (played by Tom Bateman) financial struggles.

The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival earlier this year, marking DaCosta’s fourth feature-length project. Known for her work on Candyman (2021) and The Marvels (2023), DaCosta’s adaptation of Ibsen’s play maintains the essence of the original while infusing it with contemporary themes that resonate with modern audiences.

Unraveling the Plot

The plot revolves around Hedda’s dissatisfaction in her marriage and her desire for social status. Just returned from their honeymoon, the Tesmans are preparing to host a lavish party in their extravagant but financially draining home. George, who is burdened with debt, hopes to secure a prestigious university professorship that is pivotal for their future. This opportunity is contingent on Professor Greenwood (played by Finbar Lynch), a guest at their gathering.

The tension escalates with the arrival of Dr. Eileen Lovborg (played by Nina Hoss), Hedda’s ex-lover, who is vying for the same academic position as George. Eileen, now sober and striving for redemption, brings with her a provocative manuscript that could change the course of her career. As the evening progresses, Hedda’s facade as the perfect hostess begins to crack, revealing her manipulative nature and the lengths she will go to preserve her ambitions.

A Bold Creative Vision

DaCosta’s adaptation stands out due to its decision to shift the setting from Ibsen’s Norway to 1950s England. This change enhances Hedda’s struggle for autonomy in a repressive society, amplifying the film’s emotional stakes. The meticulous set design by Cara Brower and Stella Fox captures the opulence expected of a mid-20th century socialite, with striking visual elements such as peacock wallpaper that symbolizes beauty and power.

The film is rich in symbolism, employing the color red to signify Hedda’s moral ambiguity and foreshadow the bloodshed that unfolds. Furthermore, DaCosta cleverly incorporates a storyline involving a gun, which serves as both a literal and metaphorical weapon throughout the narrative. From Hedda’s practice with blanks at the beginning to the gun’s ominous reappearance later in the film, these elements deepen the sense of impending doom.

DaCosta’s portrayal of complex characters adds depth to the narrative. Notably, she alters the gender of Eileen Lovborg, originally written as a male character in Ibsen’s play. This shift not only adds layers to Eileen’s character but also emphasizes Hedda’s own journey toward self-discovery and empowerment. DaCosta has expressed her commitment to presenting multifaceted Black women on screen, highlighting the struggles and societal pressures they face.

Tessa Thompson delivers a compelling performance as Hedda, embodying the character’s inner conflict and moral ambiguity. As she grapples with her identity and societal expectations, Hedda’s journey becomes a poignant reflection on the complexities of race, gender, and ambition.

Overall, Nia DaCosta’s ‘Hedda’ is a thought-provoking and visually stunning adaptation that captures the essence of Ibsen’s original work while infusing it with modern relevance. The film is now available in selected theatres and on Prime Video, inviting audiences to experience this bold retelling of a timeless tale.